Introduction
Since the 2014 Lok Sabha election, India has witnessed a remarkable decline in terror attacks orchestrated by Pakistani jihadists. Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government, a resolute commitment to counter terrorism has resulted in commendable success.
In 2021, terrorism had a significant impact on various regions of India, including the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), northeastern states, and parts of central India. The terrorist groups active in the country included Lashkar-e-Tayyiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, Hizbul Mujahideen, ISIS, al-Qaeda, Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen, and Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh. Notably, terrorist tactics shifted towards attacks on civilians, with an increased reliance on improvised explosive devices (IEDs), including a drone-based explosives attack on an air force base.
Terror Attacks in India
The early 2000s witnessed a series of devastating terrorist attacks on Indian soil, leaving an indelible mark on the nation. India has been a victim of numerous terror attacks thanks to the neighboring country of Pakistan. Some of the major attacks on India:
2001 Indian Parliament attack: Perpetrated by members of Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, this terrorist attack targeted the Parliament of India in New Delhi, resulting in the deaths of several security personnel and the terrorists.
2006 Mumbai train bombings: Lashkar-e-Taiba and the Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) coordinated a series of seven bomb blasts over 11 minutes on the Suburban Railway in Mumbai.
2008 Mumbai attacks: Members of Lashkar-e-Taiba, an extremist Islamist terrorist organization based in Pakistan, carried out a four-day-long series of coordinated terrorist attacks in Mumbai. The targets included hotels, a railway station, and a Jewish community center.
2019 Pulwama attack: Jaish-e-Mohammed, a Pakistan-based terrorist organization, was responsible for the suicide bombing attack on a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir.
BJP Government's Counter-Terror Measures
1. Strengthening Security Measures:
The government has prioritized enhancing border security, particularly in conflict-prone regions like Jammu and Kashmir. The increased deployment of security forces, integration of advanced surveillance technologies, and the utilization of modern equipment have played a pivotal role in countering terrorist activities.
2. Diplomatic Efforts:
Engaging in diplomatic initiatives, the BJP government sought international support in the fight against terrorism. Efforts to isolate nations supporting terrorism and collaboration in intelligence sharing have been integral to India's comprehensive counter-terrorism strategy.
3. Legislative Measures:
Introducing and amending laws, such as the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, has empowered security agencies to effectively deal with terrorist activities and organizations. The legal framework has been bolstered to ensure swift and stringent action against perpetrators of terrorism.
4. Combating Radicalization:
Initiatives aimed at countering the radicalization of youth include education and awareness programs, fostering inclusivity, and promoting a tolerant society. By addressing the root causes of
radicalization, the government aims to create a resilient society resistant to extremist ideologies.
PM Modi's Counter-Terror Doctrine
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent statements at the Hindustan Times Leadership Summit shed light on India's robust counter-terrorism strategy.
On the national security front, the Modi government took a resolute stance against terror attacks from neighboring countries, authorizing surgical strikes against terror launchpads responsible for incidents like Uri. The approach marked a departure from the response to the Mumbai 26/11 attacks under the previous UPA-II government.
Addressing the capture of Wing Commander Abhinandan post-Pakistan's strike on February 27, 2019, India deployed a strong deterrent, including the threat of Prithvi ballistic missiles, leading to the release of the Indian pilot by Pakistan.
India's counter-terrorism strategy at the United Nations is built on five pillars: normative, legal, coercive, compliance and domestic implementation, and the promotion of international cooperation. Despite challenges, India has demonstrated compliance and domestic implementation, exemplified by its approach to UN Security Council resolutions like 748.
1. Strategic Planning:
Both actions were meticulously planned, involving all three services prepared for potential cross-border escalations. Notably, Indian Scorpene hunter-killer submarines patrolled the Makran coastline before the Balakot strike, deterring potential naval threats from Pakistan.
2. Deterrence and Resolution:
The intensity of India's response, including the strategic positioning of Prithvi ballistic missiles, compelled Pakistan to refrain from harming Wing Commander Abhinandan. The swift and diplomatic resolution of the situation underscored India's commitment to protecting its citizens and military personnel.
3. Contrast with Previous Governments:
In contrast to the UPA government's perceived caution post-26/11 Mumbai attacks, PM Modi's administration displayed effective leadership in responding to incidents like the 2016 Uri attack and the Pulwama attack in 2019.
4. Impact on Terrorist Groups:
India's resolute response has caused terrorist groups in Pakistan to reconsider attacks within India. Leaders of these groups now seek refuge, fearing both open and secret reprisals from India. Despite economic and political turmoil in Pakistan, Modi's approach has yielded positive results in mitigating the threat of terrorism.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's unwavering commitment to countering terrorism has brought about a paradigm shift in India's approach. From bolstering security measures to diplomatic endeavors and strategic military actions, the BJP government has demonstrated its dedication to safeguarding the nation against the scourge of terrorism. As India continues to navigate the complex landscape of regional security, PM Modi's leadership stands as a beacon of resolute determination in the face of adversity, ensuring a safer and more secure future for the nation.
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